Ecuador & Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are the closest thing on Earth to visiting another planet that happens to be teeming with life. These volcanic islands 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador are where Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution, and the wildlife here behaves as if humans simply do not exist. Sea lions lounge on park benches. Marine iguanas sun themselves inches from your feet. Blue footed boobies perform their mating dance without a glance in your direction. It is a living nature documentary that you walk through in real time.
Ecuador itself is a small but remarkably diverse country straddling the equator on South America’s Pacific coast. It has the Andes running through its center, the Amazon basin to the east, and a coastline to the west. Quito, the capital, sits at 9,350 feet in a valley surrounded by volcanoes and has one of the best preserved colonial centers in South America. But for most travelers, Ecuador is the gateway to the Galapagos, and that is where the magic happens.
Where to Go
The Galapagos archipelago consists of 13 major islands and dozens of smaller islets. Each island has its own character and its own endemic species. Santa Cruz is the most populated and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can see giant tortoises up close. Isabela is the largest island with volcanic landscapes, flamingo lagoons, and excellent snorkeling with sea turtles and penguins. Fernandina is the most pristine, with massive marine iguana colonies and flightless cormorants.
San Cristobal is where Darwin first landed in 1835 and today serves as one of two arrival airports. The sea lion colony at La Loberia beach is one of the first wildlife encounters most visitors have, and it sets the tone for everything that follows.
Snorkeling in the Galapagos is world class. Swimming alongside sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas, and reef sharks in clear, warm water is an experience that few places on Earth can offer. Some sites, like Gordon Rocks, offer more advanced diving with schools of hammerhead sharks.
On the mainland, Quito’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ornate churches, colonial plazas, and the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional. The Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument marks the equator line just outside the city. The Otavalo market, about two hours north, is one of the largest and most colorful indigenous markets in South America.
Where to Stay
In the Galapagos, the mode of transportation is the accommodation. Small expedition cruise ships like the Ecoventura fleet, the National Geographic Endeavour II, and Silversteen’s Silver Origin offer naturalist guided itineraries with all inclusive pricing. For land based stays, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz and Scalesia Lodge on Isabela are excellent eco lodge options.
In Quito, Casa Gangotena on Plaza San Francisco is a beautifully restored mansion with rooftop views of the old city. The Illa Experience Hotel offers boutique luxury in a converted colonial building.
Let Us Plan Your Galapagos Trip
The Galapagos requires advance planning. National park regulations limit visitor numbers, popular cruise itineraries sell out months ahead, and the logistics of connecting mainland flights with island transfers need to be coordinated carefully. We will match you with the right cruise or land based itinerary, handle the bookings, and make sure your Galapagos experience is everything it should be.
